RAM 2500: Where luxury and power meet
PROS: Exciting towing and engine prowess; smooth driving experience despite the truck's size; comfortable, quiet, and tech-heavy cabin; and Power Wagon trim is the off-roading option.
CONS: The diesel engine is noisy and outdated; depressing fuel economy; and tight spaces are hard to maneuver due to the dual-rear-wheel-axle.
VERDICT:
Does it have any competitors or rivals?
Chevrolet 2500, GMC 2500, and Ford 2500.
What’s interesting about the 2500?
- This truck offers up to 4,010 pounds of payload and up to 19,010 pounds of towing capacity, depending on the engine and powertrain combination you choose.
- If you want robust power and adventure, check out the Power Wagon trim.
- Though the 2500 is enormous, accelerating, stopping, and handling are smooth and responsive.
- Comfortable and luxurious cabin means that you can take the 2500 on long drives without killing your back.
How about the prices and trims?
Seven trims are available this year with prices that range from just shy of $41,000 to almost $70,000, similar to rival models. However, what sets the 2500 apart is the number of features crammed into each trim. Take your time picking the options you want, and you will probably stay within your budget.
The 2500 comes as either a regular, crew, or mega cab, the last offering the most space for the folks in the back. In contrast, the regular cab only seats three. Beds come as either long (8') or regular (6'4"). Drivers also have two powertrains from which to choose, a gas V8 and a diesel engine.
Which one do we recommend?
The Laramie is our trim of choice. We'd add 4x4, keep the V8 engine, and add features that make city driving a little smoother, such as the load-leveling air suspension. Check out higher-end trims if you need to tow a lot or want off-roading capabilities.
What about its availability?
Shoppers should have no trouble test driving the 2500 HD at a nearby Ram dealership. Call to make an appointment today!
What about its performance and handling?
- Two engines are available: a Cummins diesel inline-six that generated 370 horsepower or a 410-horsepower V8.
- Rear- or four-wheel drive come standard with the diesel engine, and the V8 gets paired with four-wheel drive.
- The diesel engine is loud and its transmission isn't as smooth as we'd like; we recommend sticking with the V8.
- Overall handling is better than most, but tight spaces become difficult with such a large pickup.
One of the ways the Ram 2500 distinguishes itself from the competition is the excellent handling it provides on almost any terrain. The towing capacity (up to 19,010 pounds) is less than rivals, but most drivers won't need more than that anyway. However, if you're keen to drive a diesel engine, we recommend checking out the competition. The diesel options offered on the 2500 (and 3500) can tow more, but they're noisy, clunky, and heavy, making these trucks slower.
While all trims come with features to provide a smooth driving experience, the Power Wagon is built for off-roading. Standard features include a disconnecting front stabilizer bar, four-wheel drive with a manual-shift transfer case, specialized suspension tuning, and locking front and rear axles. We don't have EPA estimated fuel economy rates; however, experience tells us that drivers should expect frequent trips to the gas pump.
How’s the interior?
Cabin Space
Shoppers have their choice between three cabin options: regular (seats two), crew cab (seats five), or the mega cab (seats five). We usually recommend going for the crew cab so that adults can have sufficient legroom and additional cubbies, but the mega cab adds even more legroom and storage options. As with the new 1500 (not the classic; both reviewed separately), the interior comes in a wide range of bare bones to absolutely luxurious.
If you intend to use this solely as a work truck, consider the Tradesman or Big Horn (called Lone Star in Texas) trims. The interior isn't anything too special, but surfaces are easy to clean and you'll have everything you need to haul and tow. Our favorite trim is the Laramie, which has power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, active noise cancellation, dual gloveboxes, power-adjustable pedals, and power-adjustable and heated front seats.
Infotainment and connectivity
The base trim Tradesman comes with a five-inch touchscreen, USB ports, and a six-speaker sound system, while the Big Horn enhances those features with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Uconnect, and an 8.4-inch touchscreen. Other features of note that drivers can add include a navigation system, a nine-speaker sound system, a wireless charging pad, and an expanded 12-inch touchscreen. Most drivers will be satisfied with the standard features of the Big Horn or Laramie trims.
LIKES: Any trim besides the Tradesman comes with a substantial list of tech features.
DISLIKES: Safety programs such as blind-spot monitoring, rear-cross traffic alert, and lane departure mitigation are only available with the optional Safety Group.
How about the technology and features?
LIKES: Getting used to Uconnect doesn't take very long and the graphics are clean and crisp. The 5-inch touchscreen is too small for most, so we're glad it's only standard on the Tradesman.
DISLIKES: Navigation system isn't great and we recommend spending that money on a wireless charger.
Quick Quirks: As cool as it sounds, a 12-inch touchscreen will likely be a bit much for most drivers. |
Some additional features include:
- Multiple USB ports and 115-volt outlets come standard.
- Optional elements worth considering adding to your trim include a dampened tailgate, remote tail-gate release, adjustable tie-down hooks, and in-bed storage bins (not available on the long bed).
- Hopping in and out is easy peasy, thanks to many handles throughout the cabin.
- Shorter drivers might find the driving position a little high for their liking.
How’s the exterior?
Once you get into the realm of HD trucks, the exterior is all about maximizing the potential they offer under the hood and in the cabin. The 2500 embodies everything you would expect from such a robust pickup. The front grille is aggressive, the lights are significant, the body is muscular, and the bed is made for hauling. Drivers can always add trailer hitches, power-adjustable side mirrors, and larger wheels if they feel they need it.
What warranty and safety does it offer?
Very few features come standard, and all 2500 trims have an average warranty package.
- The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has awarded the 2500 four out of five stars.
- Limited warranty for 36,000 miles or three years.
- Powertrain warranty for 60,000 miles or five years.
- Diesel powertrain for 100,000 miles or five years.
- Complimentary maintenance is not included.
Are there any incentives and rebates for the 2500?
To learn about incentives and rebates, visit your local Ram dealership.
